Joining as a ‘client' member of the Association, the Coal Authority, known for its work to manage the legacy of the UK's coal mining past, signifies a significant expansion of the BDA's outreach and influence.

Paul McMann, chair of the BDA, expressed enthusiasm about this new partnership: "We are thrilled to welcome the Coal Authority to the BDA. Their expertise in managing coal mining legacies and commitment to environmental and public safety aligns perfectly with our objectives. Their involvement will provide a valuable real-world client perspective, enhancing our ability to represent and elevate the drilling sector effectively."

Gareth Thomas, head of development from the Coal Authority, added: "The Coal Authority is a forward-thinking and practical organisation. We work with a range of partners to deliver for the communities we serve in the former mining areas of Great Britain. Being a client member will enable us to collaborate with the BDA and its members. This partnership will improve standards and ensure the development projects we facilitate in former coal mining areas are not only sustainable but create a better future for people and the environment in mining areas."

This partnership will improve standards 

"With the BDA's recently revamped Audit, which is a hallmark of our members, the partnership with the Coal Authority underscores the importance of safety, quality, and professionalism in the drilling industry. This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to these values," McMann concluded

The ‘client' membership category of the BDA is designed for organisations that procure or specify ground drilling services, offering them a platform to engage with and contribute to the drilling sector's continuous improvement.

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